The Crusaders' Twickenham experiment has proved a hit with fans as their relocated Super Rugby clash against the Sharks sold more than 30,000 tickets in the first 30 hours.

The hastily-scheduled March 27 fixture, the first time Super Rugby will be played outside the Sanzar countries, has been described by a United Ticketmaster spokesman as the most sought-after rugby ticket outside of internationals.

The Crusaders have been forced to find alternative venues for their home games after the devastating Christchurch earthquake damaged AMI Stadium on February 22.

Most matches have been taken to regional New Zealand venues but some imaginative planning has seen their Round 6 clash moved to the home of English rugby in an effort to bring out London's New Zealand, South African and Australian fans - as well as curious locals - and raise funds for the relief effort back in Christchurch.

A percentage of each ticket sold will go towards the Christchurch earthquake recovery appeal.

Since the earthquake, the Crusaders have played two home games in Nelson and this weekend are away to the Highlanders in Dunedin. On a bye in round seven, the Crusaders will play their eighth round match on April 9 against the Bulls in Timaru.